100th baby born at maternity unit

100th baby born at maternity unit

DOWNPATRICK'S midwife-led maternity unit has delivered 100 babies over the past 12 months.

Local woman Tanya Murphy recently gave birth to baby Sophie who became the 100th to be born at the unit located within the Downe Hospital over the past year.

The proud mum said she was very impressed with the local baby unit and couldn't have asked for anything else. Tanya is also encouraging other would-be mums to have their babies in Downpatrick.

The South Eastern Trust, which runs the midwife-unit, said year-on-year the service provided in Downpatrick is continuing to grow. The total number of babies delivered at the unit since in opened in 2010 is almost 240.

"The Downpatrick unit provides a local access to maternity services in line with the government initiative of Transforming Your Care, providing a community-based patient centred approach for women," said a Trust spokesperson.

"We encourage all mothers to consider using the unit for local antenatal care as well as giving birth in their local area."

One local mum who is due to give birth at the Downpatrick unit has explained she chose the town's midwifery facility after hearing positive reports about it.

Catherine McKinley said she wants a "natural homely experience." She described the Downpatrick facility as a newer modern unit, one which is close to home and very convenient for her family, especially as it's her second baby.<\n>Women interested in having their babies at the Downpatrick unit are welcome to visit the facility or can telephone (028) 4461 6995 for further information.